Are You Up for the Thrill? Experience Hiking in Peru

Of all of the chances of things to do in Peru, probably the most known is trekking. Trekking vacations can be arranged to be anywhere from one to ten days long, and there are a variety of trails and paths to walk. Planning your trip early and making the appropriate reservations on the trails you plan to hike will help make your stay a lot more fun once you arrive.

The most popular trek in Peru, by far, is the Inca Trail. A four day hike on foot, this journey starts in Cusco and ends up at Machu Picchu, an ancient and mysterious fortress built high in the mountains over six hundred years ago. There are, however, many other lesser-known but none-the-less fantastic trails to hike for visitors of all ability and fitness levels. For southern routes, start in Cusco, for northern trails, Huaraz. There are ancient ruins and fantastic views no matter which direction you head or which trail you hike.

There are some things to be acquainted of if you want to trek the Inca Trail. First, the trail is limited to only 500 visitors a day, including guides and porters. That means the openings will fill up quickly. If you plan to go during the peak months of May through September, arrange your place at least six months in advance. During the off-season (also the rainy season), you will still need to retain a spot three months prior. The trek will be fantastic no matter when you hike it, but anticipate a lot of rain, limited visibility, and wet clothes and sleep gear for an off-peak visit.

Make sure to book your adventure through a honorable agency or travel bureau. You need to make sure that your safety is their number one priority. The least expensive tour is not the best or safest. You can rent gear in many places around towns, so it’s not necessary to procure your own. You do, however, require a good pair of broken-in hiking boots. Also, try and consign yourself a day or two in before hand of your hike to acclimate yourself to the thinner air in the mountains.